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Tyne & Wear Museums awarded for Autism Acceptance
A leading regional museum, gallery, and archives service has been awarded the Silver Autism Acceptance Award for its commitment to supporting autistic visitors, staff, and volunteers.
Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, which manages nine museums and galleries across Tyneside, including the Great North Museum: Hancock, and the Tyne & Wear Archives, was presented the award by the North East Autism Society (NEAS).
The award was presented by Kerrie Highcock, Family Development Manager at NEAS, to Julie Westgarth, Clare Smith, and Kate Holden.
Julie, HR Business Partner at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums said: “We are thrilled to receive this award.
"Our partnership with the North East Autism Society has been a huge help to us in making changes to ensure that our museums and galleries are welcoming spaces for autistic people."
In partnership with NEAS, Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums has introduced initiatives to create a more exclusive environment for autistic visitors.
Key initiatives include providing sensory bags, ear defenders, and introducing relaxed sessions at events.
Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums have also created online resources to guide visitors and provide information about what to expect when they visit.
Kerrie said: “We are thrilled to recognise Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums with the Autism Acceptance Silver Award.
"The organisation’s proactive efforts to create a more inclusive and sensory friendly environment reflects its genuine commitment to supporting the community."
The organisation, which has a staff team of 250, and the support of over 600 volunteers, has also implemented a more inclusive recruitment process, and conducted autism awareness training for staff.
Kerrie added: “As Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums continues its journey towards achieving the Gold Award, we look forward to seeing the introduction of more fantastic initiatives that will enhance accessibility and make all its venues a welcoming destination for everyone.”
Further improvements planned to reach the gold standard include:
- Conducting an environmental audit to identify and address accessibility barriers, within public areas and staff spaces.
- Improving training opportunities that support autistic volunteers.
- Reviewing and updating website sections to include more advance information to assist visitors in planning their visit.
Julie said: “This is just the start of the process, and we will continue to act on their advice and make more improvements.”
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